The proliferation of Mattress Firm stores has come to an end now that the company has filed for bankruptcy protection and announced the first of what will be hundreds of store closings.

In Houston, the company has 18 stores on the chopping block, among its vast portfolio of at least 138 locations in the greater metro area.

Many of the stores set to close are within walking distance of sister stores. There are four near Texas 249 and Cypress Creek Parkway. In Pearland, there are three along Broadway near Texas 288. Another three are clustered at the intersection of the Gulf Freeway and Bay Area Boulevard.